Difference Between Copper & Brass
Recycling your metals is a good option to benefit your business as well as the environment. To make the most benefits from your recycling process there are certain steps to be taken, which includes the separation of like metals. Two metals to be sure to separate prior to recycle them to make a difference between Copper and Brass since they’re among the most popular recyclable metals. The primary reason to separate the metals is because they have different values. Although these values vary, copper generally is valued at around twice the amount per pound as brass. If you’re looking to earn the highest amount of money from your scrap metal it is important to understand the distinction between the two and know how to differentiate the two and if you’re not sure which kind of metals you have, you can take your scrap metals into Botany Scrap Metal in Walpole, Massachusetts, and get the money you deserve for your ferrous and nonferrous metals!
How To Differentiate Brass And Copper
The reason that brass and copper can be difficult to distinguish is the fact that they’re alike in appearance, but only at a distance. If you study the two metals with a close eye you’ll notice the copper color has a dark red undertone , whereas brass has an undertone that is yellow. Another way to identify the difference is to look at the signs of corrosion on the metal. Corroded brass is likely to have areas of reddish-colored metal, while copper that has been corroded will have green patches. Another way to distinguish the difference between these two metals is to determine their strengths. The strength of brass is greater, while copper is flexible and can be bent on and cut more easily. When you stretch copper it’s likely to stretch before breaking in contrast to brass, which will snap and not flex and require greater strength to break. Another method to distinguish them is the sound test. In the event that you touch your piece of metal, and you hear an extremely high-pitched sound, it’s probably brass. When it’s tapped, copper produces an edgy sound that is a ring. It is possible to get an idea of which one is which by knowing the purpose for which they were employed prior to their conversion into scraps. Because brass is more durable than copper, it’s typically used for jobs that require a lot of strength, like construction or equipment. Copper is, however, a fantastic conductor of electricity, and is hence often utilized in wires. Here are six ways to assist you in making the right choice.
Properties
Copper is an element of the periodic table (Cu) and is a pure metal. It is an element discovered in mines throughout the globe. Brass however is a metal alloy. The fact that it is a metal alloy indicates that it is composed of a mix of several elements, and isn’t naturally present. There is a proportion of zinc and copper in brass.
Color
Copper has a rustic, reddish-brown finish while brass has the appearance of a lighter, yellowish color with a more luminous sheen. Brass’s appearance is similar to that of gold.
Uses
Because copper conducts electricity quite efficiently, it’s frequently utilized in electrical wiring as well as electronics. Brass is often employed in household fixtures, furniture, decorative, and other objects because of its durability and strength.
Sound
Find out if the metal is sounding by striking on the surface of the material lightly. Copper is likely to produce an incredibly low and deep sound while brass can produce an extremely high pitched sound.
Magnetism
If you own a strong magnet, you could use it to check for brass or copper. Copper isn’t magnetic at any point. Brass is a little magnetic and will respond to a strong magnet. A powerful magnet will help you determine the difference between copper and brass. Since copper isn’t magnetic, it will not respond to magnets. Brass however has an entirely different reaction. Be sure that the magnet you choose to use is strong enough, as the magnetic properties of brass are not as high. You might need to place an object next to the magnet to determine whether it attracts.
Codes
Examine the item for the letter “C” engraved into the item, followed by numbers of three or five digits. If you find such an engraving, then it’s brass, not copper. If there’s no engraving, it could be copper.
Value
Copper typically brings an increased value to scrap than bronze. Although both are acceptable to be scrapped, knowing the differences between them can add value to your metal hunt.
Durability
Durability is a crucial aspect to take into consideration when comparing brass and copper. It is durable and flexible. Copper isn’t prone to cracking or breaking easily. Another benefit of copper is its flexibility since it is able to stretch and bend it to meet your requirements. Brass however is strong, however it’s not as robust as copper. In fact, it’s susceptible to corrosion and cracks.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that it is difficult to distinguish between brass and copper, particularly since the latter is produced when mixing copper and a set quantity of zinc. Copper is typically a greater value for the scrap metal than brass. Both metals are suitable to be scrapped, understanding the distinction between them will add more value to your metal hunt. If you’re unsure of the kind of metal you’re working with, you can run the tests above to determine whether you are certain. If you’re not sure what to distinguish between brass and copper, look for an experienced and trustworthy source such as Botany Scrap Metal who can offer expert guidance. If you have any concerns about recycling scrap metal, or want to sell scrap metal to Australia do not hesitate to get in touch with the team of Botany Scrap Metal! Contact us at +61 2806-50401 or use an inquiry form via our site and we’ll get back to you as quickly as we can! Botany Scrap Metal is a family-owned scrap metal business that is based in Australia. Our staff of experts have many years of expertise in the field and we offer amazing prices for all types of non-ferrous and ferrous metal. We are the industry leaders in scrap metal recycling in Australia and we’ll pay you good cash for the scrap you have. Contact us today for fast and courteous service.